Prof Elbrecht had a deep seated love for nature and pursued his academic career at the former Transvaalse Universiteitskollege (the predecessor of UP). He was promoted to professor and head of the Department of Plant Sciences and Biology in 1934 and is remembered in particular for his contribution to the design and maintenance of the botanical gardens on the UP campus. During his career he undertook numerous expeditions to collect plants for the gardens, as far as the Karoo, the Sandveld and even the Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

His love for nature is also reflected in a booklet that he compiled with his wife, Josina Maria (also a plant scientist), Popular Plant Science, published by JL van Schaik in 1922. Illustrations in the booklet were done by JH Pierneef and Pieter Wenning, with pen sketches by Prof Elbrecht.

Mrs Joy Elbrecht-Crous (86) is his only remaining child and she unveiled the plaque in honour of her father. “I am very proud to be able to attend this ceremony today and see his hard work live on at the University,” Mrs Elbrecht-Crous said.
 

Mrs Joy Elbrecht-Crous unveiling the plaque.